Academic Coaching
Available to any undergraduate student at Messiah University, academic coaching has numerous benefits which enhance a student’s university experience. Academic coaching often involves practical advice about study skills, time management and organizational tools, and test-taking strategies, but it also includes the opportunity for students to talk about the challenges and joys of university life. Coaching sessions are tailored to meet the individual needs of each student and to help them make healthy and productive choices.
Academic coaching is a highly sought-after student success program at Messiah University. Through this program, a skilled coach provides accountability, support, and collaboration to students in various areas, including:
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Creating schedules and plans: The coach assists students in developing effective schedules and plans to manage their academic tasks and responsibilities.
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Setting goals: Coaches help students set clear and achievable academic goals, ensuring they have a clear direction for their studies.
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Overcoming procrastination: The coach guides students in overcoming procrastination by providing strategies and techniques to improve their time management and productivity.
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Establishing structures for organization: Coaches assist students in establishing structures and systems for organizing their time and materials, enabling them to stay organized and focused.
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Time management: The coach works with students to improve their time management skills, helping them prioritize tasks, allocate time effectively, and make the most of their study hours.
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Maintaining priorities: Coaches help students identify and maintain their academic priorities, enabling them to make informed decisions about how to allocate their time and energy.
Through these collaborative efforts, academic coaching at Messiah University aims to empower students and enhance their academic success.
A Team Approach
The student and the coach collaborate as a team to identify areas in which the student is facing challenges and to formulate strategies for achieving success. This process is driven by the student's needs and preferences. The discussion and implementation of strategies are guided by the student's goals and aspirations for improved performance. The student's motivation to succeed plays a vital role in the entire coaching process.
The Role of Coach
The coach serves as a valuable "sounding board," helping the student to focus their thoughts towards finding solutions that will aid in overcoming obstacles. They offer essential structure, accountability, and support for students of all learning styles to work toward academic success. Weekly meetings with the coach, typically lasting 20-30 minutes, provide an opportunity to reflect on the previous week and plan for the upcoming week(s).
Getting Started
If you believe that coaching could enhance your success at Messiah University, please reach out to the Office of Academic Accessibility at (717) 796-5382 to schedule an appointment. Alternatively, you can register online by following these instructions for signing up for academic coaching. We are eager to collaborate with you and look forward to assisting you in your journey.